Inter’s hopes of signing Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku on a permanent deal are dependent on the Premier League club reducing their asking price, according to Italian journalist Marco Barzaghi.
Lukaku joined Chelsea in a €115 million deal from the Nerazzurri in 2021, before returning to Inter on loan last summer, but has failed to impress after a series of form and fitness issues.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Barzaghi offered an insight into how Inter would be able to retain Lukaku next season, warning that it would not be an easy deal to complete unless Chelsea were willing to offer a discount for him.
“The agreement has to be found with Chelsea for Lukaku, and it remains to be seen whether or not the English club are willing to renegotiate the current agreements by lowering the amount for the loan and setting a figure for the outright purchase,” Barzaghi declared.
Meanwhile, he also issued a further warning to Inter by revealing that Serie A leaders Napoli could also join the chase for Lukaku, particularly if Chelsea offer him in exchange for Partenopei striker Victor Osimhen.
“In addition, rumours were circulating about a possible Chelsea offer to Napoli with Lukaku as a quid pro quo to get Osimhen. Therefore, it will not be an easy operation for the Nerazzurri,” he concluded.
Lukaku has only scored two goals in all competitions this season, and has only featured in 474 minutes of football.
